Information For:

DAT

The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is a standardized test required of applicants to DMD or DDS programs. The DAT consists of multiple-choice test items presented in the English language and requires four hours and 15 minutes for administration. The four separate parts of the exam cover:

  • Natural sciences (biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry): 100 questions, 90 minutes
  • Perceptual ability (two- and three- dimensional problem-solving): 90 questions, 60 minutes
  • Reading comprehension (dental and basic science): 50 questions, 60 minutes
  • Quantitative reasoning (mathematical problems in algebra, numerical calculations, conversions, etc.): 40 questions, 45 minutes

Prepare for the DAT:

Additional Information about the DAT:

The American Dental Association (ADA) regularly publishes updates that concern the DAT on their website.

  • A sub-section of the exam was revised in 2014-2015. The Critical Thinking content will eliminate numerical calculations, conversions, geometry, and trigonometry. Questions on data analysis, interpretation and sufficiency, quantitative comparison, probability and statistics will be added in this time frame. This sub-section of the exam began contributing to the test scores in 2016. 
  • ADA had announced planned modifications to the Biology section of the exam. In August 2014 ADA confirmed that such changes will NOT be implemented until 2015-2016. For up-to date information about the DAT consult their Newsletters
  • ADA also prepares general statistics about test-takers that can be helpful as you reflect on your overall preparation and interpret your scores. Their Examinee Information publication presents such statistics.